Millions in China cram for civil service exam and the hope of a job for life

The launch of ChatGPT three years ago marked a significant moment in the AI landscape, initially positioning the United States as a frontrunner. However, recent developments indicate a dramatic shift, with China advancing in open-source AI models while Europe is retracting its regulatory ambitions, leading to concerns about the quality of AI-generated content.

China's official factory gauge showed a slight increase in November, indicating stronger production and demand, although it has remained in contraction for the eighth consecutive month. This suggests a modest improvement in manufacturing activity despite ongoing challenges in the sector.

Western companies that once viewed China as a lucrative market are now adapting to local tastes and lower price points, transforming the country into an innovation hub. This shift reflects the increasing competition and changing dynamics in the global market.

England Women achieved a resounding 8-0 victory over China at Wembley, highlighted by Georgia Stanway's hat-trick and a double from Beth Mead, alongside goals from Lauren Hemp, Ella Toone, and Alessia Russo. This match marked a significant improvement in England's scoring ability, reminiscent of their previous heavy win against Jamaica before the Euros.

Russia and China are notably absent from the escalating tensions between the United States and Venezuela, as President Trump intensifies pressure on Nicolás Maduro, warning of potential military action. This situation reflects a shift in the so-called 'Axis of Authoritarianism,' which is currently preoccupied with the ongoing war in Ukraine and trade negotiations.

A devastating fire at the Wang Fuk Court residential complex in Tai Po, Hong Kong, has resulted in at least 128 fatalities, with around 200 individuals still unaccounted for. The city has begun a three-day mourning period, marked by a moment of silence led by city leader John Lee and senior officials, as families search hospitals for their missing loved ones.

Up to 1,000 women are currently on death row across at least 42 countries, with many facing execution despite circumstances such as child abuse and coercion being overlooked. The highest rates of execution for women are reported in China, Iran, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia, according to a 2023 report by the World Coalition Against the Death Penalty.